Jealousy, Favor, and Exaltation

Acts 7:9–10 (NASB95) 

9“The patriarchs became jealous of Joseph and sold him into Egypt. Yet God was with him,  

10and rescued him from all his afflictions, and granted him favor and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh, king of Egypt, and he made him governor over Egypt and all his household. 

Stephen’s narrative turns to Joseph, whose story foreshadows Jesus’ rejection and exaltation. The patriarchs, driven by envy, sell Joseph into slavery—a heinous act condemned in both Jewish and Greco-Roman law. Yet, God’s presence remains with Joseph, echoing God’s faithfulness to Abraham. Despite unjust suffering, Joseph receives divine favor (χάρις) and wisdom (σοφία) before Pharaoh, paralleling Stephen's own gifts (Acts 6:3, 8, 10) and prefiguring Jesus' (Luke 2:40, 52).  

In his response, Stephen highlights the typological connections between Joseph, Jesus, and Stephen. Like Joseph, both Jesus and Stephen faced rejection from their own people but were ultimately vindicated and exalted by God. This pattern emphasizes God’s sovereign plan working through seemingly adverse circumstances. The mention of "handing over" (ἀπέδοντο) recalls Jesus’ betrayal and resonates with Luke’s audience familiar with political intrigue and injustice. 

Joseph’s exaltation demonstrates God’s ability to use ordinary people for extraordinary purposes. Embrace opportunities to serve, trusting that God can use your gifts and experiences, even if they seem insignificant, to advance His kingdom. God’s faithfulness transcends human failings. Like Stephen, trust His plan, even when it seems unclear, and remain faithful in adversity—He is working for your good and the good of His people. 

Blessings, 

Ryan Goodnight